Hello, My Brothers All:

I indicated in my last article that I would include a message that was targeted to Degree Masters. We have now conferred all 29 degrees in Winter Park Lodge – our new home – and have a good sense of what is available and how we configure or set-up the degrees in a Lodge room size environment. We certainly want to use props and will continue to do so, as they assist in communicating the message intended in each degree. However, many of our props are simply symbols or a simple image that has narration describing it (i.e. “The Camp Lecture” in the 32nd degree). I would request that each Degree Master review their degree looking specifically at the props and symbols. When props are needed we will utilize them, but I am confident that there are several props that are nothing more than a symbol that could be shown via a PowerPoint slide or other image projected on the screen or wall as appropriate. In moving forward, I will allow you time to review your degree and will then schedule a meeting in the not too distant future with the Degree Masters for the Fall Degrees so we can evaluate your needs as far as props/symbols are concerned. Please follow the eNews as the meeting date and time will be included therein.

Thanks again to the nine new Masters of The Royal Secret who attended their first Scottish Rite meeting in April as Masters of The Royal Secret. I hope that the evening was enjoyable, the information shared educational, offering a bit more information and insight on the Scottish Rite, particularly in the Valley of Orlando. As was illustrated, we have a large responsibility in the Orient in support of our philanthropic cause – “The Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida USA, Inc.” I hope to see each of the sixteen new Masters of The Royal Secret from the spring class and their families in attendance at our June 22nd stated meeting (open to all), which will be the ring ceremony and the knighting of those who desire to join the Knights of Saint Andrew. In addition, we will also officially receive our Deputy of the Supreme Council and his lady. Ill:. Hoover will no doubt have an interesting and informative message to share. Remember, if you are able I encourage you to offer a donation (check, cash or credit card) to the Foundation at the June meeting. This meeting is the last meeting before the Scottish Rite Foundation closes its books to end its fiscal year so that a new year can begin. Remember, no donation is too small or too large, but all are greatly appreciated, and each donation will make a difference!

Just a quick encouragement to read and reflect on the words contained within the Scottish Rite Creed, which has been and will continue to be included in the eNews. It lists our Cause, our Supreme Wish, our Mission and our Ultimate Goal. The words are few, but they offer a clear and concise description of who we are and what the Scottish Rite is about. Think of how you will put it to work every day, in all facets of your life. When you do this, you will be living Scottish Rite Freemasonry, receiving the rights, light, and benefits that this great fraternity offers.

Mentoring is an important part of our fraternity, as it helps new members to grow and learn, and provides them a resource to answer questions and gain a better understanding of the organization and it’s many opportunities and benefits. In the Valley of Orlando, we believe in keeping it simple by making mentoring a shared responsibility. Therefore, the top line signer of a petition is automatically the mentor for a new Master of The Royal Secret. That being said, we will start sending a reminder letter to each top line signer of a new members petition, after the petitioner is welcomed into the Rite at our spring or fall reunion. Please ensure that you are available, as time permits, to assist this new Master of the Royal Secret as he continues his lifetime journey in Freemasonry and now his lifetime journey in the Scottish Rite. Additionally, over the summer we will host a Saturday morning breakfast training meeting on mentoring, for all who desire to attend. Follow and read the eNews for details that will include the date, time and location. I encourage as many brothers as can please attend.

Until next time, remember the many things for which you are thankful! Be safe in your travels; “whisper wise counsel in the ear of an erring brother;” and respect the dignity of all, as it makes you and our fraternity stronger one action at a time. Thanks for your continued support and participation; and may the “Spirit of Fraternity” reign supreme within our “Valley of Orlando!”

Fraternally,
Ill:. Chester A. “Chet” King, 33°
Personal Representative

“People forget what you say, and forget what you do, but forever remember how you made them feel!”